Just Friends? Just Perfect
The fine folks behind the now-shuttered Emma’s in Journal Sq. have a hit new venture on their hands. Opened since January, Just Friends is their cozy little Rat Pack-themed restaurant in Downtown’s Hamilton Park neighborhood. Their menu consists primarily of elevated comfort food and Italian-American classic dishes. They are located in the former home of the beloved Monmouth Deli and like their predecessor, Just Friends is already a huge hit in the neighborhood thanks to the low-key ambiance and most of all, the tasty food at super reasonable prices.
The menu includes burgers and chicken sandwiches, chicken piccata, filet mignon and a slew of expertly made pasta dishes. Ever on the hunt for the perfect cacio e pepe, we think the Just Friends version is outstanding. For one it is cooked perfectly al dente. The sauce is extravagantly rich and creamy, but the portion size is just enough to leave you satisfied but not regretting overindulgence.
Starters include fun favorites like smoked chicken wings, fried calamari and a super creamy burrata. As of this writing, Just Friends has a nice selection of alcohol-free wines and beers, or you are welcome to BYOB.
Just Friends is also open on weekends with a brunch menu that includes egg sandwiches, steak and eggs, lemon ricotta pancakes and yes, the scrumptious cacio e pepe.
500 Monmouth St. @justfriendscafe_jc
